HUNDREDS of Inverclyde schoolchildren had a ball playing on the pristine pitch at Cappielow.

Primary pupils from across the district took part in the finale of the annual Tesco Bank Football Challenge at Morton’s ground.

Over 400 primary two and three kids from five schools — Ardgowan, St Joseph’s, St Patrick’s, Aileymill and St Mary’s — took part in coaching sessions as part of the Scottish FA’s flagship participation programme.

They then put their skills into practice with a kick-about at Cappielow as part of a fun-filled festival to mark the end of the challenge.

Former Ton player Stuart Rafferty, who is the SFA football development officer for Inverclyde, said: “It is a brilliant initiative that we’re proud to deliver to schools across the country.

“We were pleased to welcome the children to Cappielow for this latest festival after a great six weeks of coaching.”

The challenge is a five-year community programme run in partnership with the SFA and Tesco Bank.

It introduces pupils aged six to eight to football to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.

Teachers and volunteers also benefit, with more than 7,500 of them now trained to support the growth of the sport in schools.

Alan Graham, head teacher at St Joseph’s Primary, said: “The children have enjoyed a fantastic six weeks of coaching with the Scottish FA and the festival marks a perfect end to the programme.

“They have learnt so many important skills since taking part, and the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle.”

Adele Mills, community investment manager at Tesco Bank, said: “It was great to see so many children from Inverclyde having fun whilst keeping fit and healthy.”